

Environmental Sciences Degrees are usually undertaken by students who like the natural, physical, and biological sciences.
By studying this specialisation, young people get new knowledge about the processes and phenomenons that affect the environment and find solutions to problems that concern nature.
Students’ interest has increased a lot in recent years due to climate change, pollution and other adverse effects on the environment. Environmental Sciences graduates bring multiple benefits to the world they live in, analysing systems and finding effective solutions to develop sustainability and green processes.
The main advantage of the Environmental Sciences Degree is that students are becoming more aware of how we need to protect the environment, give up chemicals and harmful products that pollute the planet in favour of the ones that are biodegradable or environmentally friendly. By becoming aware of the dangers we are facing, students find innovative ideas for sustainability and sustainable development.
This specialisation encourages young people to develop skills such as critical and creative thinking, teamwork, adaptation. Complex issues are debated through this degree, so students need to be innovative and think outside of the box to use resources wisely, protect and, above all, preserve natural wealth.
Besides the advantages listed, the rate of employment is high, because the jobs are being more and more diversified. It has been noted that there is a greater need for environmental consultation, biologists exploring natural environments, and sustainability consultants. This degree can also be useful for other jobs, such as Landscape Architect.
The structure of the degree includes several subjects, depending on the university a student chooses. Some universities prefer to focus on the theoretical policies and notions discussed in the courses, while others choose to rely on systematic research and practical experience gained in the environment. In principle, these studies require a background in the following sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Ecology, Physics.
Bachelor Degrees in Environmental Sciences last between 2 and 3 years. Courses are based on the knowledge of the Sciences of Nature and Social Sciences. Most Bachelor programmes are based on college courses, but also on practical projects. A Master’s programme lasts for about 2-3 years and is recommended for those who want to continue with in-depth research into the elements of the environment. Doctoral courses are designed in such a way that students will be guided to conduct independent research, having a much different structure than during their Bachelor. This programme lasts between 3 and 6 years.
It is important to know that students can choose to pursue this degree online. In this way, students can take advantage of the flexibility and save money, as costs are much lower compared to those spent at universities. For example, The Open University offers online courses, the level of information being authentic and useful for the students.
Positives:
Austin College is a small private school with very small class sizes. My largest class was a first-semester biology class with around 35 students, and later on in my career, I had a few classes with as few as 5 or 6 students. This was a huge positive for me, as I really appreciated the discussion-based classes and support from the professors. Professors and staff are generally very accessible, staff will know your name, office hours are readily available, and professors are typically invested in you and your career at the school. Austin College also has many programs and opportunities for studying abroad. There are some financial resources for students who need them. Also, the school offers month-long “terms” for students to study abroad with a group of other students and professors in incredible locations. I personally did a May term in Nepal and was lucky enough to experience the beautiful country and culture relatively affordably.
Negatives:
Austin College is a small school with a small campus, although I do believe the school has grown a bit since I attended. I was in the sciences, so I was able to take advantage of the then-new Idea Center, but the buildings for some other disciplines are quite small and outdated. As this is a smaller institution, there is not the large variety of classes that you would see at a state school, and sometimes signing up for classes can seem a bit like a fight to the death for specific spots in classes required for your major.
Again, I do think my time at Austin College benefited me in many ways and I enjoyed my time there. Being a small, private institution, your time at Austin College will be what you make of it. Make sure you take advantage of the resources and programs that the college offers.
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